Under Construction

Christmas in Texas

2012-01-09T15:11:00.001-07:00

Oh, for the love of CANDY!!

2012-01-09T15:00:00.001-07:00

Pumpkin Patch

2011-10-15T12:08:00.003-07:00

Eagle Ranch Pumpkin Patch with Poppy!

Julia as a "blond little sweet Asian princess"

Bradley as "Buzz"

Allison as a "black ninja"

Field Trip!

2011-10-15T11:41:00.001-07:00

We took a field trip to Cross Orchard Historic Farm in Grand Junction yesterday with about 7 other home schooling families. We witnessed apple cider being made on a press from 1897! Soooooo goooood!!! The farm was purchased in 1914 as a "showcase" farm by a wealthy family from New England. The kids enjoyed the tour. Our second stop was the History Museum of the west. Super fun with cowboys and Indians, old school houses and saloons, fire trucks and hot air balloons!

Apple box labels stuck on the kitchen ceiling to prevent the dust from falling into their food.

Enjoying fresh cider (cider is sweet and sour apples mixed, apple juice is just sweet, if you were wondering).

Just a bunch of punkins!

First Day of School

2011-08-28T19:16:00.000-07:00

PreK-4, 1st, and 3rd

Lunch break

Vail "Diva" Half Marathon

2011-08-28T18:48:00.005-07:00

Start - about 700 ladies

What happens when you wait and wait and wait for mommy to finish?

You get to play and play and play!

And find a bat on a rock!

Then give mommy and high-five at the halfway point

Finally, you get to share in wearing the Diva's tiara and boa

Last Dog Days of Summer

2011-08-28T18:39:00.001-07:00

Always a smile with food in his mouth :-)

Can't believe we moved here when they were just 15 months and 2 years old!

Great day with Gavin!

Happy Birthday Super J!

2011-08-04T15:48:00.006-07:00

We had a fantastic trip to Pagosa Springs celebrating Julia's birthday and reuniting with the Long's, Cosby's and Gray's. We rested, ate, took a few walks, and tubed the San Juan. Jim was able to get in two mountain bike rides and a few naps. It was so great to see everyone! And yes, what a treat to see Patrick and Dawn...with a new baby on the way!!!

This is what tubing the San Juan can do to a 6 year old. Its tough to have so much fun!

J's Slumber Party

2011-08-04T15:35:00.002-07:00

Slip-n-Slide, pool, warm sunshine, princess cake, games, movie and nighty night! We all had a great time. Thank you friends and family!

Friday Nights at the Park

2011-08-04T15:11:00.002-07:00

Every Friday at the Park Hyatt in Beaver Creek throughout the summer is a great "kid zone." They give out free everything!! Horseback rides, fly fishing lessons, fire truck tours, gondola rides, pop corn, snow cones, and SMORES!!! Hot off the Fire! And yes, we conquer it all!

Ready for 3rd Grade!

2011-06-10T15:37:00.005-07:00

Student Award Presentation

Mrs. Fischer gave Allison the "Nurturing and Encouraging" Award. She stood out all year with these characteristics from the Lord.

(Allison far left)

Last day of school spent at Freedom Park with games and picnic

Happy 8th!

2011-06-04T17:40:00.003-07:00

Allison had a fantastic 8th birthday! We had 7 other girls over for a slumber party. They each personalized their own pizza and cupcakes. Due to the amount of sugar consumed, bedtime came a little late. However, more fun could not have been had! Lots of toys, giggles, and painted toenails. Happy Birthday Allison!

Letting our Runner Run!

2011-05-27T14:40:00.003-07:00

Well, in less than one hour we will saying good-bye to Suka (fast). That she is! Fast! She so needs to run and run and then run some more. With me chasing kiddos all day, I can not physically chase a dog as well. Therefore, it is in this very hour that I am humbled...yes, as many may know already, I am not Super-mom! Some have called me "monster-mom," but I'm now retiring the title of Super-mom.

So Suka is going to live with a new family in Glenwood Springs. They have another dog (Cujo) and a yard, just what she needs. After meeting Cujo, I think Suka might just give him a run for his money!

Suka, our sweet Suka. We will meet again. When we meet our Maker, you will run through fields that we can not imagine. I'm looking forward to you pulling our sled for His Glory! So sorry that we couldn't make this your home on Earth. See you soon!

Happy B Day B Boy!

2011-05-03T08:14:00.005-07:00

What a Super Hero we have! He officially began his 4th birthday as IronMan, but quickly felt the need for a few meltdowns, as any 4 year old does. The Entertainer made note that he was taller today and had a few more muscles.

And yes, all birthdays in our family begin with doughnuts!

Our green fisted HULK, turned into the "Broccoli Man"

Enter May

2011-05-01T18:58:00.002-07:00

Our poor bird feeder is on its last leg, due to the fantastic snow we got today! Ha, Ha! The Dreamer keeps dreaming of riding his bike, yet the snow still falls.

And, yes, can anyone really be surprised? We feel led to once again travel down this road....we'll see what happens.

Resurrection Sunday

2011-04-25T16:03:00.004-07:00

Another Day the Lord has made! Let us rejoice and be glad! Oh, how we are glad that He is risen. What Peace and Hope He brings to our everlasting days. Praise be to God!

Locks of Love!

2011-04-23T19:19:00.003-07:00

Allison got 10 inches cut off her hair yesterday! She has been growing it since the beginning of the school year and had just enough to send to Locks of Love. She is so giddy and can not stop smiling. She loves her new hair cut...perfect for summer!

Jose Family Reunion

2010-07-11T18:20:00.002-07:00

Much to do in May

2010-07-11T17:25:00.004-07:00

Bradley's 3rd B-day! Every Jose gets doughnuts on their birthday.

Celebrating 10 years in Vegas!

Allison's 7th B-day party at the Art Center

Waiting on the bumper boats

Bradley's first test drive

Allison in the "big girl" cars!!!

2nd trip to Vegas in one month! Having fun with Uncle John!

Thanks for being such great host

Who said girls were easier? I spent 6 months in tears potty training them!

This big guy took two days!

A Grateful Goodbye!

2010-04-12T10:39:00.002-07:00

We plan to close May 4th! We are so thankful of the Lord's provision and are looking forward to our next adventure. Thanks for all of your prayers and support!

Nana's Birthday at the Zoo

2010-04-12T10:35:00.000-07:00

Wild Life - all in our own backyard!

2010-04-12T10:28:00.003-07:00

Our usual 6:00am arrival

Yes, they know we were watching
Never take for granted,

the wonder,

of God's Glory!

Quick Winter

2010-04-12T10:12:00.002-07:00

B in Uncle J's overalls

B learned to stop this year! Our next olympian!

Our rockstar/skier/nurse/beauty queen

A & J's First Slumber Party

2009-11-24T19:53:00.002-07:00

Ready to watch a movie
Girls! Girls! Girls!
HIDE!

Saturday morning devotion and story time

Production of The Nutcracker

First and Last

2009-11-24T15:05:00.005-07:00

Yes, you guessed it! Our first stop, the Guggenheim.
B in Central Park East.

The kiddos dream...to play in a pile of leaves.

Lunch out with the Great Aunt Becky and Great Grandma Harvey, 98 in February!

Balto the dog! We read about him in school...

saved the entire town of Nome, Alaska in 1925.

To the Expo to pick up my number.

Day two, first stop, FAO Schwartz.

Heaven!

Think Big!

Awww, please dad?!!

NYC tourist official poseDay at the Museum of Natural History

A successful climb in Central Park West

The Big Day....Mile 16, crossing the Queensborough bridge,

first time to see the Jose support team

The elite men

You know, they did finish, shower, eat lunch, catch a movie,

then head back to the finish line to see me cross!

Support team stops at a cool grocery store

Yeah! 16 down, 10 to go!

Headed up-town to see Jo at mile 23

In training...to be silly!

Getting closer!

And finished....I think everyone is!

Aunt Becky, the NYC inspiration!

Day Four, the Statue of Liberty.

On the ferry

Looking at the Staten Island Ferry

Woke up at 5am to take a cab to the ferry to a bus to the start...

officially started at 10am

Takes awhile to organize 42,000 runners!

Yes, the day after the marathon, we hiked 156 stairs

inside the Statue of Liberty, and that was just to her feet.

In Battery Park, the "Positive Brothers" did their thing. J Dad

thinks he has see them on America's Got Talent. They've got our vote!

Future architect? Who knows.

Outside Great Uncle Johnny's new office.

Completely crashed! What a trooper!

Its like he ran a marathon or something.

2009-10-15T15:15:00.003-07:00

Just some happy faces from me to you.

J's First Day of Soccer

2009-08-24T20:16:00.001-07:00

The Spectators

2009-08-24T20:08:00.002-07:00

A's Baptism

2009-08-24T19:48:00.007-07:00

Last October, A came to know Jesus as her personal savior...its an emotional, supernatural, phenomenal, precious story that she would love to share with you anytime. As for us, we are beyond blessed to call her and sister in Christ. Oh, how the angels rejoice!

So, this past Sunday our church held its annual baptism in Lake Creek just across the street from our church building. It was awesome! After about 10 people were baptised, not a dry eye was to be found. A blessed us all with her strength as courage (as the water hovered around 40 degrees).

She definitely has her 6 year old moments, but no doubt contains the power and authority of the Holy Spirit! Praise be to God and to God the Glory!

First Day of School

2009-08-24T19:39:00.004-07:00

Little J is not so little as she is now an official "Pre K-4" participant. And as for Miss Alli B, she is rockin' and a rollin' in 1st grade! One week down! 35 to go!

J's 4th!

2009-07-29T12:21:00.004-07:00

J had a wet in wild 4th birthday party! The girls had a great time running through the sprinklers and sliding on the slip 'n slide while B torchered Uncle John with the super soakers. Her birthday cake was in the shape slip 'n slide and the bash ended with popsicles in the pool! Thanks to all for such fun!

Blessings

2009-07-29T12:17:00.002-07:00

The Finished Product!

2009-07-29T12:12:00.001-07:00

A's Day!

2009-07-29T11:59:00.004-07:00

For A's 6th birthday party she wanted to have a veterinarian party. So the kiddos all received a pet to take care of, making a collar, birth certificate and checking it out at the "vet." The girls had a great time! It was a special treat to have Great Grandma H there along with Aunt Gabby!

Smore Smores

2009-07-29T11:55:00.002-07:00

After living and working in Summit Co, we never thought that we would camp there. Oh, what fun!

My Monkeys

2009-05-15T15:47:00.005-07:00

Just your average day...kindergarten, sleeping on the job, and a little game of football!

Whole Lotta Love

2009-05-02T18:04:00.005-07:00

So I hope you don't be blogger overloaded, but AGAIN, I have some catching up to do. Order of events....Grandad and Nini's visit, Daddy J's 40th Birthday trip to Phoenix, Daddy J's party with Grandma & Grandma J and Uncle P & Aunt D's visit, Easter, visit from the Steamboat Zs, and finally today's celebration - #2 for Mr. B!

Day 333

2009-03-06T15:47:00.005-07:00

Our 3 week anniversary for our home is marked with day 333! Kinda fun!

So moving day was Feb 13th, which also was the day we moved from the world of health to the world of colds. The day we moved in was the first of of the worst cold ever for me. And likely so, the kiddos got it the following week. The Lord graciously spared J dad so he was able to keep on keeping on. I title this day with a number, due to the fact that we have yet to "finish" the house. My question to anyone out there that has ever built a home, or even just own one...is there ever a day that you finish? I doubt it. However, we really do have some work left and some that won't get touched until all the snow melts...which may not be that far away :(

All in all, I can't explain how blessed we feel just resting our heads under such a roof as this. We praise His name for His provision and direction and thank Him every day for His glory in all of his creation, including this home. We also want to thank you guys for your prayers throughout this journey. They have truly sustained us. We can't wait for you to come visit, dine, sleep, party, play...whatever with us here (the girls are kicking it off tonight with their first sleepover guest, they can hardly wait!).

So here are a few pics of the last couple of weeks, as well as a few from last summer that I just had to share again. Its funny when you have a quiet moment at the computer what you can do :)

Love to all,
Jo

Day 274

2009-01-07T20:37:00.003-07:00

We are sooooo close. J is working super long and hard every day and night. We hope to be in by the end of this month (however, a month ago we had a month left). No really, I think its going to happen this month.

Please pray for safety and God's wisdom over the final decisions.

Christmas 2008

2009-01-07T20:02:00.008-07:00

Here are a few pics of our Texas Christmas. 14 hours to and 16 1/2 hours fro. However, totally worth every runny nose, cry for help, minute of lost sleep, and loud scream of pain. We got to see the Atlata crew, the Durango crew, the Dallas folk, a few down from TTU and our long lost but ever so loved friend, Paul.

Happy New Year!!!

Quick Pic Update

2008-11-18T12:41:00.016-07:00

Just a few pics to update you guys. Sorry that it has been so long. Moving took all of my free time, Praise the Lord! We are now at mom's for a few months while hubby finishes the house. The kiddos have been great through this all. They haven't missed a beat...Halloween, Thanksgiving, and now counting down to Christmas.

Pics of the house soon to come.

Love,

The Forgetful Toothfairy

2008-10-24T12:04:00.003-07:00

So last night we are all sitting down to eat dinner and A jumps out of her chair with blood oozing from her mouth. She lost her 3rd tooth! We then found it in the pizza on her plate...yummy! Anywho, she was soooo excited, just about to cry! And totally could not wait until bedtime to put in under her pillow. As we tucked her in, she tucker her tooth under her pillow and said goodnight!

What a great night sleep we all had! It was nearly 7:30 before any noise peeped from my kiddos. A was first to arrive. She peeked around my foot board with a terrible look on her face. "Mom, I waited for hours and hours, and the Tooth fairy never came," she said. As you can imagine, I just about lost all feeling in my belly. Oh man! What have I done? How could I have forgotten? What to do now?

Well, she climbed in bed with me and I asked her "what do you think happened?" She proceeded to tell me that their was another child in Africa that lost their tooth last night and the Tooth fairy couldn't make it back to our home in time. Oh, how my heart was breaking! We decided that we should mail the Tooth fairy a letter ASAP so that she would not "miss her or forget to stop by." We got it in the mail just in time.....now we wait. She anticipates that the Tooth fairy will get her act together and do her job tonight.

Praise the Lord for a 5 year old with such a forgiving heart!

...NOTE to parents, Be quick to think and slow to forget :-)

jo

Preparing to say Good-Bye

2008-10-09T16:46:00.004-07:00

What a week this has been! Watching what the Lord can do is awesome. He brought us an offer on Tuesday and we have come to an agreement today....We are under contract!!! Praise be to God and to God the Glory! Thank you to all of you that have been such prayer worriers and support to us over this past year. We have been so blessed to be in this house and pray that it can be just that for a new family.

This is a picture of our home the day we moved in, June 28th, 2005, just one month before we brought little J home. The Hubs painted, tiled, carpeted, and installed wood floors in just one month...what a man, what a man! Then, not even a year later, he was finishing the basement, what a mighty man! We were so blessed to have grandma H with us for four months! Mr. B came home just a few months later, as J then refinished the fireplace and the kitchen. What a mighty God! Anyway, as we all know, life happens so fast. But, in the meantime, we soak in God's love, power and sovereignty over our lives. We praise him this day and every day for his provision. May "our little cottage in the woods" continue to be filled with Christ's love and blessing over many more families to come.

We close on Oct 30th! Gotta get packing!

With bitter sweet tears,
jo

Off to Connecticut

2008-09-30T12:32:00.004-07:00

We said "see ya later" to grandma this past Saturday. She moved to Connecticut to an assisted living right around the corner from Aunt Gabby's office. We all agreed that it was time, as her memory was worsening. What a blessing she has been to all of us! God has truly blessed our family with her love and servants heart. We pray mercy and grace upon her now and a smooth transition. She'll be 97 in February!!!

(the views are out our front and back doors of our new home)

Day 177

2008-09-30T12:12:00.008-07:00

So, here we are! We've almost finished the landscaping. We had the irrigation, trees and sod all installed and I've been planting all the perennials and shrubs. I have LOVED it! Mom has helped a ton by keeping the kiddos while I've been digging holes. The weather has been perfect and I've had great fun doing it. The roofers will finish this week, along with the guys installing the fire sprinkler system. Next step insulation and dry wall!

Still working on selling our current home. Come on Congress, do what you gotta do to sell our home :-) Hee hee! God is sovereign! What a relief!

Find rest, O my soul, in God alone;
my hope comes from him.
He alone is my rock and my
salvation;
he is my fortress, I will not be shaken.
Psalm 62:5-6

World, Here I Come!

2008-08-18T19:37:00.006-07:00

The first day of Kindergarten was a success for little A. She had a great day beginning with swim lessons and ending with an outing to the park. She loves to read and make up motions for her memory verses. She is soaring like a champ!

Global Warming?

2008-08-17T12:52:00.008-07:00

Daddy and I made a day trip to Denver yesterday to furniture shop for the new house. We had a great time, just the two of us, ending the evening with a movie. We got home super duper late, but enjoyed our date.

I took this pick around 9:30am as we were headed up to the Eisenhower Tunnel. All the snow was gone by 10:00pm as we were headed home, but it was a fun little teaser. Actually, the weather here is great, hanging around 75 degrees all day. Its definitely feeling a little like Fall, but we know more heat is on its way....or at least we hope so, for the girls have another two weeks left of swim lessons.

Happy Sunday!

Up 500 Feet

2008-08-10T13:30:00.002-07:00

What a blessed day we had! We drove to Frisco, parked at the Marina, and road our bikes to Breckenridge, had lunch on the banks of the Blue River and road back. Daddy J pulled B and A in the Chariot and I had little J on my bike with me. I huffed and puffed, but finally made it up 500 feet. Coming down was a blast and took us half the time. The pics are of our pic nic by the river. How is it that throwing rocks in a river can be so much fun? Life is good!

The Usual Saturday

2008-08-08T13:06:00.006-07:00

All begins watching Saturday morning cartoons...while A wears Hanfu directly from China and J sports the snow skiing suit, directly from China (via Wal-Mart) and topped off with the car racing helmet :-) And all ends with a bath followed with shaving newly grown beards.

Day 116

2008-07-31T09:55:00.001-07:00

More of J's party

2008-07-31T09:39:00.004-07:00

Opening presents was fast and furious. Little J could hardly keep up with the other kiddos opening them for her. And A, well she was quick to "take the money and run."

We did get our first pet! A fish, Strawberry Shortcake. I'm just glad that I don't have to potty train it!

1 - 2 - 3

2008-07-31T09:30:00.004-07:00

B is finally walking! We are so excited! It just makes life so much easier!

A has lost two teeth now!

And J turned 3! Yippee!

Loose Tooth!

2008-07-15T13:38:00.002-07:00

So, little A was so excited to have her first loose tooth this past Friday and not only but 15 hours later have it fall out. The tooth fairy brought her a whole dollar bill! She couldn't believe her eyes! The one right next to it is just about out and her two front teeth are starting to wiggle. I guess it was so exhilarating that she just pooped out on the living room floor later that afternoon. We can't ever get her to nap anymore, but when you need one, you really need one.

B is gaining a few new ones every month. He has two teeth on the bottom and four on the top. Growing like a champ!

J is sprouting up. As a nearly 3 year old she is enjoying her week at VBS with A..."like a big girl."

Camping at Sylvan Lake

2008-07-10T09:31:00.003-07:00

We had a great time with Rob and Mel in town and began our visit with a trip to Sylvan Lake. We had two nights scheduled, but the ladies of the house have become a little too high maintenance and headed home early with 5 little duckings in tow. The guys stayed the extra night and had a good "guys night out" while we enjoyed the warmth and comfort of our own bed and shower. Ahhh, the blessings in life. Anywho, we had a great time watching the kiddos fish, hike, eat smores, and survive on little sleep. The week ended with a trip to Water World in Denver. Needless to say, we all spent the next week playing catch up with laundry and sleep. We had a Blast! And can't wait to do it all again!

....as a side note, we had a funny moment at the bowling alley when a lady asked me if all five kiddos were mine. I said "no, just three." She replied saying, "and one on the way?" I laughed and said "no, just full from dinner." She wasn't even embarrassed, and I couldn't care less. It was funny and topped of the week :-)

Day 95

2008-07-10T09:08:00.002-07:00

Well, its a whoppin' 67 degrees, beautiful for building a home today. A ton has changed! Windows are in, fascia is going up, decks are being built, plumbing is being set and the Lord is moving mountains! We are so excited and really loving this adventure. Things are going really well. Our current home is on the market now and we are praying for God's perfect timing. The girls are getting more and more excited about a "new room" and "secret hideout." All is well on this home front, hope the same is for you.

Love,

mama j

Nearly 2 Months Later, and about 5 to go!

2008-06-06T13:29:00.004-07:00

So here we stand! The first two pics are of a nearly disastrous occurrence - the fork lift got stuck and nearly went over backwards into our basement...not good. However, they were able to tow it out without any lawsuit to follow :-) Daddy O was happily taking pictures of the whole thing, just in case. The next pic is looking out our basement window from the media/game/ family room. The last is the side view of our garage. We're moving right along and should be done framing by the end of next week!

Happy Birthday A

2008-06-06T13:14:00.003-07:00

Our tea party was just swell! We had a great time and A couldn't get enough of drinking pink lemonade out of a REAL teacup and using a REAL teapot! The company was marvelous and the food was delightful! What a wonderful afternoon.

I had a great time making the teapot cake and the girls loved that they could actually eat it. B wasn't phased at all, by the fact that he was out numbered - thankfully Poppy and Daddy stopped in for some man relief.

A's one and only promise throughout the past year and a half was to like eating ALL fruits and vegetables when she was 5! This was totally her idea and she stuck to it every evening for dinner. Well, needless to say, it didn't happen over night. She is still putting up a little fight to finish the last veggie, but she is getting better :-)

5 years! As every parent knows....WOW, how fast that went! What a blessing little A is!

Just a thought

2008-05-22T13:44:00.002-07:00

Let His Glory be in His Sovereignty
Not my Peace be in my Pride,
For His Glory is above my position
And my Peace is in His presence.

Happy Birthday Mr. B

2008-05-22T12:48:00.004-07:00

Finally, we have pics of B's B-Day! It was so fun. B had a great time digging into his Car Cake and receiving a his first new car to drive. This last year flew by and we are so thankful for his growth and love that B shares with us. He is just about to walk (furniture surfing) and loves to play with his sisters. His favorite thing to do is play with their toys in the basement and go outside to swing. However, his newest love is to take all the pillows off the couch and climb all over them.

SuperA

2008-04-25T14:06:00.002-07:00

It takes "SuperMom" to home school "SuperA," or so I'm told. I think this "SuperMom" has flown into a few buildings lately:-)

Making Way

2008-04-21T09:36:00.002-07:00

We are super excited! God is good and has allowed us to dig a whole! Praise be to Him and to Him be all Glory...every step of the way!

Breaking Ground, through life

2008-04-15T17:56:00.007-07:00

WOW! Months pass and the blog stands still! This fam is ready to get back to normal. We have had so much going on over the past few weeks that time has just flown by. Hubs has been busy breaking ground on our new home, while the kiddos have been enjoying the sunshine in the backyard. A's first year of home school is coming to a close and J is FINALLY breaking into potty training and a "big" bed. B is pulling up and has taken the gold in furniture surfing!

Even through the craziness of life, we continue to have the Lord's Peace beyond understanding! He is good.

Happy and Healthy

2008-03-14T14:55:00.005-07:00

So, I can't really figure out why I stopped my blogging binge, but for no other reason than my time in the evenings has been turned over to reading more. I just finished 90 Minutes in Heaven and The Shack and am now starting The Last Jihad. JiJo and I just got back from AZ where we attended a pastoral retreat with our church and were able to hear Joel Rosenberg speak, the author the The Last Jihad and Epicenter (a book JiJo just finished). Anyway, I'm looking forward to the read. All said, my time on the computer has been a little slow....sorry to those family members that check often for new pics. Well, I hope to keep up a little better, but for now, here are a few pics from Valentines Day.

All is well here. We just past our final review on our home and hope to break ground next month. The kiddos are FINALLY well and are anxiously awaiting the snow to melt at the park.

We miss you all and will fill you in with a little more to come!

Happy New Year

2008-01-21T10:42:00.000-07:00

What a year! 2008 has been keeping us really busy. So busy that I have missed many great blogging moments. Anywho, I didn't want to miss this one. We took the kiddos to the park yesterday. They had a great time walking in the snow that came up to their waists. The park is great, but it sure doesn't beet the luge in the backyard.

Messy Marvin

2007-12-12T14:48:00.000-07:00

Not much to say about this accept that we have since removed the rug from underneath the dining room table. Blackberry smoothie doesn't come up so well.

Merry Christmas from Santa, the snowman, the reindeer and just the most handsome man I've ever met!

Let It Snow!

2007-11-30T11:44:00.000-07:00

So dad made it to gymnastics this week. Its by far the girls favorite activity yet! They love it!...mama as well

Fun Friday consisted of making gingerbread houses...my two little architects in the making!

Have a great weekend! We are planning to stay in....12-18 inches of snow predicted! So who's making their next trip a ski trip? Come join us!

Trip to the Fire Station

2007-11-25T14:09:00.000-07:00

The kiddos were fortunate enough to be "practice dummies" for the firefighters in training yesterday morning. We have a few firefighter friends who asked us to use the kiddo in a paramedic training. While we were there, we got a little tour of the firehouse and the trucks. We had a great time and were able to check the Fire Station off of the home school field trips for the year!

Griswold Family Christmas Tree

2007-11-25T13:53:00.000-07:00

So yesterday we fulfilled our Griswold family Christmas tradition and cut down our Christmas tree. It was a beautiful day, a little brisk, but nothing these southerners can't handle.

B had a great time! As you can see, B and J did most of the work!

The tree stands about 18 feet tall! We love it! I think that its the best one yet!

We spent the afternoon trimming!

And starting to wrap a few presents....look out, J is on her way to your house!

Time Flies

2007-11-07T15:04:00.000-07:00

I was just looking for some new pics to post...thought some old ones might be more fun today. Can you figure out who is who?

Behold, children are a heritage
from the LORD,
The fruit of the womb is a reward.
Like arrows in the hand of a
warrior,
So are the children of one's
youth.
Happy is the man who has his
quiver full of them;
They shall not be ashamed,
But shall speak with their
enemies in the gate.

Psalm 127:3-5

Sweet November

2007-11-01T15:56:00.000-07:00

Meow. Meow. Have you ever seen a cat eat a pumpkin? Its quite a sight!

We had a great night trick-or-treating. J really got the hang of the whole thing, while B only hit a few houses and then back home for a dinner and bed. The girls came home with a TON of candy...the candy fairy is visiting tonight...he takes all of the candy in exchange for a little gift. I love it! Its the greatest way for the candy to be gone!
Happy November!...its officially Christmas shopping season around here, so send your lists our way!

Been There, Done That!

2007-10-24T13:19:00.000-07:00

So we made it home! What a trip! We all had such a great time, despite JE and B suffering from princess overload. No really, it was wonderful. Our first day was spent at Magic Kingdom. We had lunch with Cinderella (and to my surprise, Mary Poppins made her glorious appearing, as she just happens to star in the best film ever made). Monday was made for Epcot! We road every space adventure future world arrow dynamic ride there was. As well, we walked through 10 countries in 10 minutes. We spent Tuesday swimming and resting at the hotel. That evening we were able to have dinner with Sammy and his new fiance and take a quick tour of Universal Studios (thanks Lissa for your advice on Orlando theme parks)! Wednesday we went to Animal Kingdom, Thursday to St. Augustine Beach and Friday was another rest day (A and JE took a trip to an upside down bank, full of video games). Saturday was smooth sailing back home. What a trip! We can't wait to go again! Who's comin' with?

Picnic with Dad

2007-10-10T14:03:00.000-07:00

I think that we are in the clear. The kiddos are finally getting well...however, not well enough for playgroup. So, we headed to the river for a picnic with dad. Its been an amazing day - amazing Fall! The trees are glorious!

I will be a Father to you, and you will be my sons and daughters.

2 Corinthians 6:18

A Little Editing

2007-10-09T20:20:00.000-07:00

After doing a little blog research, we've decided to not use our full names or reveal too much personal information leading to our family's identity. Nor are we allowing for comments to be published on our blog site....not to detract any of you from making a comment. We love to hear from you!!! They will just be hidden from the crazy world we live in so that you can have the freedom to share what is on your heart.

There are so many family blogs out there that are fabulous! Some share everything and some not so much. Every family is different and needs to do what is best for them. For us, taking these few precautions brings us a little more peace. However, we do realize that God is sovereign over this fallen world. There are those that could get into any computer and gather any information that they wanted....in that, we rest in God's peace, knowing he is in control.

All that said, enjoy!

Pink, Pink, Everywhere, Pink!!!

2007-10-03T09:02:00.000-07:00

Pink towels...one of the many consequences living with three women, and having dirty laundry full of our blue towels. I thought that I would keep this to myself, but then thought of this precious boy's wedding day and how perfect this would be to dry some eyes in the room.

Redemption as a real man!
Thank you Grandma J!

My girls are still sick, but hopefully coming out of it today. We had a pretty rough night with A having a REALLY high fever. God is good as he broke it just an hour later. I can't tell you how many movies we have watched over the past few days. Its all I can do to keep them still to rest. Actually, A could sit there for hours, while J has to break it up with puzzles, books, and feeding her baby dolls.

Happy Hump Day!
Jo

Record Breaking

2007-09-30T18:01:00.000-07:00

What a weekend! Fall is amazing. The colors are changing and are loving the cool crisp breeze. We had a great time washing "Old Blue" for the fifth time in two weeks, mowing the yard, napping, and if you know me, I've started packing for our trip to Walt Disney World (two weeks away).

This week has truly been record breaking for us and our blog! I think that I've entered nearly half of our total entries just this week. We are beginning to have a lot of fun with it and anticipate many changes to come. It will soon have a total makeover with a new purpose and hope. I can't wait to see what God has in store, but until then we hope that you continue to enjoy the updates and growing children.

Hugs and kisses,
Jo

Happy Birthday Mama J

2007-09-28T20:28:00.000-07:00

Only a mother of three could understand a birthday wish coming so late as 9:30 at night. Our day was packed with a A running a fever of 102, J taking more potty breaks that I can speak of, and B rolling into every piece of furniture possible. None the less, HAPPY BIRTHDAY MAMA J! We love you and are so blessed by your life in ours. Thank you for all that you are. We look forward to tucking into your priceless hugs and enjoying your beautiful smile...sooner rather than later. Have great day and be blessed!

Thursdays with Grandma

2007-09-27T13:20:00.000-07:00

We are now one step closer to getting a puppy! About a year ago, God just about came down from Heaven and told me face to face "DON'T GET A PUPPY...YET!" He told me to wait until all of our children were birthed and potty trained. Well it looks like we are one step closer this week. J has decided to potty train herself! She is doing great! A is wonderful support and help throughout this process, knowing that a dog is on the other side. However, they both don't realize that this deal includes B as well. And as for him making it to the potty in time...well, lets just say that he rolled over this week :-)

What a blessing this wonderful woman is in our lives! Mom and I are taking advantage of Win Win Thursdays. While Grandma comes over to visit us on Thursday mornings, mom is able to paint, rest, relax and just have some 'me' time. The girls love to have her over to play in the basement...most of the time having tea parties or playing doctor. She is a great help to me, as I can get some things done around the house without the girls at my feet. Again, what an incredible blessing 95 1/2 years can bring!

Finally, JE wanted me to share this with you guys...MY new car!He is so gitty and so thankful to the Lord to provide for us a second vehicle, for the first time in 6 1/2 years. I can't believe that I'm driving my daughter to soccer in a suburban, everything I thought I'd never be, but so glad that I am!

Weekend with Dad

2007-09-23T15:36:00.000-07:00

So, it's pretty easy to entertain them when you fill 'em full of sugar and run around the hills! Then they crash. Jo went to a women's retreat in Steamboat Springs and took B with her. So dad and the daughters enjoyed some time together playing soccer, going for ice cream, camping, fishing, rock throwing, riding bikes, driving barbie jeeps, watching movies, getting coffee....and hot chocolate, eating cinnamon rolls, shopping, watching Tech lose :(, going for ice cream (to mourn), attending church, shopping, and yes.....going for ice cream. Hard to believe that I actually managed to wash some dishes, some clothes, vaccum, bathe them both, fix 6 meals, water the plants, read 9 books to them, clean my truck, and update the blog! All this PALES in comparison to what my wife does every day!!! And believe me, there are rose petals and ground kissing at her feet upon her return!

I'd do it all again!

Love to all. Jim

J's Two!

2007-08-18T14:44:00.000-07:00

Yes it's true, hard to believe, but true.
J is two! We had a fun time at the
Aquarium in Denver and a Rockies
baseball game. Then a little party to
give us an excuse for cake and ice
cream.....like we need it! She got a
really cool Barbie Jeep for her birthday
and loves being chauffered around by
A all day long. (A loves it too)
Everyone is doing great and B
keeps getting BIGGER!! My little slugger. : )

Camping & Catching Up

2007-07-14T11:37:00.000-07:00

It's become a tradition in our house that a baby has to be camping by the time he/she is one month old. B got to enjoy his first on a quick trip to the Monarch area for a weekend getaway. It turned out to be pretty chilly and prompted a quick return as well! One middle of the night feeding in below 20 degree temperature is enough to send a bear cub into retreat, why would B be any different?! But we made it through the night and enjoyed an easy drive home the next day. We're going out again to Telluride next weekend, I'll let you know how it goes.

B is getting big! Over 13 lbs now and only two months. A and J can not get enough of him. I'm just waiting for the day that he comes upstairs from the playroom in a princess dress and heels!!! (JE is slowly replacing all the dresses and fairy wands with camo and fishing rods!)

The girls got to ride horses for the first time ever in Beaver Creek yesterday and thought that was the best thing ever! I can already see their plot for more land and a stable!

Needless to say, the house is wonderfully full and all are healthy and happy enjoying the high country summer! Hope all is well with everyone! Until next time. j

A's Birthday Weekend

2007-06-06T05:59:00.000-07:00

We had another eventful weekend around the house. A turned 4 years old!! We had a great time at the zoo in Denver (A loves the monkeys) and then with a collection of friends at the house for cake and ice cream (a staple in our house).

J is often blinded by her own coolness and enjoys putting her sunglasses on.......off....on....off....on.....drop....and then on again. B is continually enjoying the show! He turned one month old on Saturday and is getting pretty big and becoming more responsive with coos and smiles. He is such a cute little guy!

A Shining Performance!

2007-05-20T19:11:00.000-07:00

We had a great time at A's first dance recital and she was terrific! She got to march on stage, dance a little, pass a teddy bear, and hide from Captain Hook in a performance of Peter Pan in front of a very full house. It was a great way to spend a Friday night at the theater.

Oh, and J LOVES ice cream!

B is doing great. Sleeping regularly, and eating well. Not quite up to ice cream yet, but I'm sure he won't be far behind his sisters!

My Weekend...by A

2007-05-13T20:07:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful weekend full of friends, family, and hamburgers! Saturday morning was a litte sad because I had to say goodbye to grandma who was here all week helping mommy with my new baby brother. But we get to see her and grandpa in July, so it's okay. The rest of the morning was spent touring the bounty of neighborhood garage sales collecting toys and treasures. Then off to a gathering of the kids in the 'hood for burgers and hot dogs. That's me and J in the middle.

Then all afternoon I helped daddy clean up the pop-up camper for the season of camping ahead. That night daddy generously donated some money to his buddies that sit at a round table and exchange cards. It looks like "Go Fish" but they don't ever say it.

On Sunday, it was Mother's Day! We took B to church with us for the very first time and everyone was really excited to see him. He's 11 days old now and already a charmer. Don't worry, I've got my eye on him. Then daddy took all of us out for a big lunch. Since he had just donated some money to his buddies, we had lunch at Costco. : ) My favorite thing to eat is the churro. A few flowers, juice boxes, and frozen popsicles later, we're home for a nap......(we didn't really sleep on the stairs)

For dinner we went to Nanna's for more hamburgers and some time with my mommy, her mommy, and her mommy! We had a lot of fun, and I hope all you mommies had a great day too!

THE END

Home and Happy

2007-05-06T14:24:00.000-07:00

FINALLY! Made it home Saturday, May 5th, and enjoyed a snowy morning leaving the hospital! This was the view from our hospital room. Pretty spectacular place to have a baby! This little car seat seems to swallow B up, but only yesterday A was hanging out of it head and toes! It was a pretty crazy day trying to get out of the hospital, make a trip to Wal-Mart (not the best choice for a Saturday!), and get settled into the house! But all is well now and we had a good night and a great day. The girls are so excited to have him home and ask every five minutes if they can hold him. I tell them sure but you have to change his diaper too....and that usually cures the grabbing for the little guy, except for J who says "okay now, chag dipa". Everyone always asks us, "what are we going to do with three kids?" Well...we're going to dance recitals, play in the park, go biking, a little hiking, a lot of camping, and TONS of skiing!! (this winter of course) We are looking forward to a busy summer and hopefully many visits from our families and friends. Have a great one!

Just a little change...

2007-05-05T21:11:00.000-07:00

...to accommodate a grammatical error.

And then there were five!

2007-05-03T10:45:00.000-07:00

It's a boy! At 2:37 p.m. May 2, 2007, the newest addition to our family arrived. We are all so very excited to introduce B to everyone. 7 pounds 3 ounces, 19 1/2 inches long, healthy, happy, and comfortably adjusting to this wonderful new world. Jo is also doing excellent and already up and around the room in less than 24 hours! We are definitely excited for you all to meet him personally, but until then these pictures will have to suffice. Enjoy!

PS: Since this is our first run of the blog, and we already have two beautiful little girls, we will have some catching up to do! We'll be posting many wonderful scenes from the Colorado Contingent in the very near future. Until then......

First few seconds in the world with Dad.
First meeting of his beautiful sisters. They are VERY excited!
First bath. He nearly fell asleep!
Not exactly sure what to think of this guy with the camera.

Some time to relax.

Proud Daddy....

...and a very proud momma!